Steve Smith believes an improvement in his batting will be the key for him to return to the national team.

The all-rounder was omitted from Australia's squad for the World Twenty20 in Sri Lanka, with the selectors explaining that he was on the 'cusp' of selection.

It has given Smith added focus heading into the new domestic season.

"I think at the moment it's me focusing on my batting," Smith said.

"I think that's what's going to get me there in the near future. I've always got my spin bowling to add to my bow and if I keep working on that as well it just gives them another option, if they need it."

Smith's team-mate at New South Wales, Doug Bollinger, is also looking for a national recall.

The 31-year-old paceman has struggled with injuries, but has managed a full pre-season and is feeling good.

"I feel really fit and strong at the moment and I'm bowling really well," Bollinger said.

"All I want to do is start well in Perth and, that old cliche, if I take wickets everything will look after itself. Everything's going well and hopefully it will keep that way."

NSW play Western Australia in the Sheffield Shield opener starting on Tuesday. After losing Phillip Hughes, Usman Khawaja and Nathan Hauritz to other states and Simon Katich and Stuart Clark to retirement, it's a new-look NSW squad this season.

But Bollinger is excited by what he's seen during the pre-season.

"The pre-season has been fantastic," Bollinger said.

"The young guys that have come through and got contracts have fitted in so well. And all the old blokes, like myself apparently, have been good."

Both Bollinger and Smith are looking forward to having skipper Michael Clarke around, with Smith hoping he can catch the national captain's eye.

"Michael is an unbelievable player and a good person to have around," Smith said.

"If blokes can do well he can see that and, being a selector, it's always good to put your hand up in front of the Australian captain."